7 High Protein Snacks That Will Keep You Full Through the Afternoon Struggle

The ugly baby reared by the words hungry and angry, "hangry" is an unpleasant state to be in. Yet, when the clock rolls around to about 3 p.m., there it goes, doing its thing, making us miserable. That afternoon slump is caused by the body's natural circadian rhythm (which regulates sleep), plus not getting enough sleep in the first place makes it even worse, according to Refinery29. Add on the stress from work and it may actually be time to fuel up.

Processed snacks tend to be unhealthy and can contain excess sugar, fat or starch. This can lead to weight gain, increase risks for heart disease and cause tooth decay, Meg Campbell wrote for the San Francisco Chronicle.

Instead, reach for snacks with high levels of protein, which stay in the stomach longer and slow down the body's release of carbs and fat — basically it keeps you full for an extended period of time. The best sources of protein are fish, poultry, eggs, beans, dairy and nuts, according to Harvard University.

Below are seven high protein snacks that'll power you through the rest of the day.

1. Ants on a log

A photo posted by (@) on

The old childhood standby makes a good adult snack too, according to Greatist. Just smear about two tablespoons of your choice of nut butter onto celery and top with raisins.

4. String cheese

5. Popcorn

Popcorn is a low calorie, whole grain snack — as long as it's not dripping in butter and salt. Although it's light, popcorn actually has fiber too. Sprinkle it with nutritional yeast to up the protein, according to Food & Wine.